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Deck Maintenance

The Ultimate Guide to Deck Maintenance: Tips, Tricks, and Services

Introduction
A deck is a beautiful addition to any home, providing a space for relaxation and outdoor activities. However, regular upkeep is essential to maintain its beauty and functionality. Deck maintenance not only extends the life of your deck but also saves you from costly repairs down the line. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer to hire professional services, this guide covers everything you need to know to keep your deck in great shape. Let’s explore tips, costs, and services available, particularly in Omaha.

Why Maintenance is Important

Decks endure a lot—sun, rain, snow, and foot traffic—all of which take a toll over time. Proper maintenance helps prevent wood rot, mold growth, splintering, and fading, ensuring your deck looks good and remains structurally sound for years. Neglecting this can lead to more extensive damage that requires expensive repairs or even a full deck replacement.

Deck Maintenance Tips

Here are some essential deck maintenance tips to help you keep your outdoor space in top condition:

Clean Regularly: Sweep away leaves, dirt, and debris frequently to prevent buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. Use a pressure washer (on a low setting) to clean the deck thoroughly at least once a year.
Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for loose nails, cracked boards, or rotting wood. Addressing these issues early on can prevent them from worsening.
Seal and Stain: Apply a fresh coat of sealant or stain every 2-3 years, depending on your deck’s exposure to the elements. This protects the wood from moisture, UV rays, and general wear and tear.
Winter Prep: Before winter hits, ensure your deck is winterized. Cover it with weatherproof tarps or use a kit that includes protective treatments.
Use Furniture Pads: Placing pads under heavy outdoor furniture will prevent scratches and damage to the deck surface.

Deck Maintenance Kits

For DIY enthusiasts, a kit is a great investment. These kits typically include cleaning solutions, sealants, brushes, and other tools to help you maintain your deck efficiently. Some kits also come with anti-slip treatments to improve safety in wet conditions.

What’s Included in a Deck Maintenance Kit?

Wood cleaner or brightener
Sealant or waterproofing stain
Cleaning brush or broom
Sanding sponge
Instructions for application

Deck Maintenance Cost

One of the most frequently asked questions is, “What is the deck maintenance cost?” The price depends on the size of your deck, the materials it’s made from, and the level of maintenance required. In general, the costs break down as follows:

DIY Maintenance Cost: If you’re handling maintenance yourself, expect to spend between $50 and $150 for a basic kit. A pressure washer rental could add $50 to $100.
Professional Deck Maintenance Cost: For those in Omaha seeking professional services, prices can range from $200 to $600, depending on the deck’s condition and size. Additional costs may apply if repairs or refinishing are needed.

Deck Maintenance Omaha

If you’re in Omaha, there are plenty of local companies offering comprehensive services. Whether your deck needs cleaning, repairs, staining, or sealing, professional companies can handle all your needs. Hiring experts ensures that your deck is properly cared for, extending its lifespan and keeping it safe for use.

Top Deck Maintenance Services in Omaha:

Regular cleaning and pressure washing
Wood repair and replacement
Sealing and staining services
Custom plans tailored to your deck’s needs

Deck Maintenance Tips and Tricks Omaha

In Omaha’s fluctuating weather conditions, from snowy winters to hot summers, it’s essential to adjust your maintenance routine accordingly. Here are some deck maintenance tips and tricks specifically for the Omaha area

Protect Against Snow: Omaha winters can be harsh, so it’s important to remove snow from your deck to prevent moisture buildup that can cause wood rot. Use a plastic shovel to avoid scratching the surface.
Spring Cleaning: After the snow melts, give your deck a deep clean to remove any mold or algae that may have accumulated during winter.
Sealing in the Summer: Omaha’s hot summers are the perfect time to apply a new coat of sealant or stain, as warm, dry conditions help the product adhere better to the wood.

When to Hire Professional Deck Maintenance Services

Although DIY maintenance can help keep your deck in good condition, there are times when it’s best to call in professionals. A professional inspection and repair service is likely necessary if you notice significant damage, such as warped boards or loose railings, or if your deck hasn’t been treated in several years.

Routine Deck Maintenance 101

Signs You Need Professional Help:

Severe discoloration or fading
Extensive mold or mildew growth
Structural issues like sagging boards or railings
Unusual softness in the wood, indicating rot

Conclusion

Proper maintenance is essential to preserve the beauty and safety of your outdoor space. Whether you choose to tackle it yourself with a deck maintenance kit or hire professional services, keeping up with routine care can save you money and extend your deck’s life. If you’re in Omaha, consider local professionals to ensure your deck stays in top shape, ready to weather all four seasons.

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Fall Deck Maintenance

Fall Deck Maintenance: What to Check Before Winter

Fall is the ideal time for homeowners to prepare their decks for the winter months. By doing a little maintenance now, you can ensure that your deck remains safe and looks great when spring arrives. Here’s what you should check before the winter weather rolls in.

1. Inspect for Damage

The first step is to inspect your deck for any signs of damage. Look for cracks in the wood, loose or wobbly railings, and any signs of rot or decay. These are problems that will only get worse with snow and ice, so it’s best to fix them now. If you find significant damage, it may be worth hiring a professional to take care of the repairs before winter.

2. Clean and Reseal the Deck

Leaves, dirt, and debris can trap moisture on your deck’s surface, leading to mold and mildew growth. Fall is the perfect time to clean your deck thoroughly, using a mild soap solution and a soft-bristle brush. After the deck is clean, consider resealing it. A fresh sealant will protect the wood from moisture, preventing it from warping or cracking during winter.

Why Fall is the Best Time to Plan Your Deck Project

3. Leaf and Gutter Maintenance

Falling leaves are beautiful but can cause problems if they pile up on your deck. Leaves can trap moisture and promote rot, especially between deck boards. Regularly sweep off any leaves and ensure your gutters are clear so that water doesn’t pool around your deck.

4. Check the Fasteners

Over time, nails and screws can work themselves loose due to changes in temperature and humidity. Check all of the fasteners on your deck, including the screws and bolts that hold the boards, railings, and stairs in place. Tighten any that are loose, and replace any that are rusted or damaged.

5. Winterize the Furniture

While your deck furniture can be a key feature for fall entertaining, it’s essential to prepare it for winter. Bring cushions indoors and cover your furniture with weatherproof covers to protect them from rain and snow. For those using wood furniture, consider applying a wood protector to extend its lifespan.

Conclusion

Maintenance for your fall deck is vital to keep it structurally intact and beautiful for years to come! Refer to our other blog posts for more helpful information!

Is Your Deck Ready for Spring?

There’s no doubt that Spring means more time out on the deck enjoying the warmer weather. There are a few things your Omaha master deck builders have learned about Spring deck prep over the years after building countless custom decks for our Omaha customers. Nothing captures the good life like enjoying Spring on a custom-built deck.

Your Deck Represents You

A custom deck is as unique as its owner. It’s in many ways a reflection of your personality and should be designed to meet your outdoor space wishes and desires. Decks are often located in a homeowner’s backyard – a place to enjoy beautiful views, entertain guests, or just relax. It is commonly said you should love the inside of your home, but the same goes for your outside space. After the cold winter months have passed, the sun is shining longer and harder, and it’s the perfect time to emerge and start enjoying your outdoor spaces again. The deck is the natural place to start this transition back into outdoor living. Make sure it is as comfortable and meaningful as your favorite room in your house.

First Things First – Deck Inspection

The amount of work necessary to get your deck in the best shape possible for Spring depends on the materials that were used to build it. If your deck is wooden, preparing it after Winter may include applying fresh paint or stain, replacing rotted wood planks, or hiring a professional deck builder for major repairs. If your deck is composite, and built with material like Trex decking material, minimal work and upkeep are necessary, so chances are your deck is nearly ready for Springtime enjoyment.

Spring Deck Prep

Before setting out any stored furniture or plants make sure your deck is spic and span. A lot of homeowners use a high-power leaf blower to remove any dead leaves, dirt, or debris that have accumulated over Winter. After removing all of the dry materials use a power washer to get rid of mold or rotting wood thoroughly.

If you have left barbeques, pots, or planters, over the winter, make sure you wash them as well, as they may have been damaged during the Winter months.

Give all of your deck furniture a good washing. A spray bottle and sponge can usually take care of the job well enough. Make sure the furniture properly dries – especially seat cushions.

Springtime is Deck Building Time

Spring is the perfect time of the year for a new deck. If you’re looking to add some more functionality and personality to your outdoor living space, consider working with an elite custom deck builder. We can easily remove your old deck and get you set up with a deck you’re going to love, and that will last for years.

If you’re thinking of replacing your old deck, don’t have a deck, or just have deck-related questions please give us a call. (402) 690-1050